Indigenous Medicine Stories: Anishinaabe mshkiki nwii-dbaaddaan

This episode features Tony Belcourt, a trailblazing Métis leader and advocate for Indigenous rights in Canada. As the founding president of both the Métis Nation of Ontario and the Native Council of Canada, Tony shares powerful stories of political organizing, cultural resilience, and the long journey toward recognition and justice for Métis people. With wisdom drawn from decades of leadership, he reflects on the importance of identity, community, and the enduring strength of Indigenous nations. http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Part 1 of 2 with Paul Francis Jr. the Vice President of N'doo'owe Binesi (Healing Thunderbird), the Indigenous Health, Partnerships and Wellness division of St. Joseph's Care Group in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Paul is a graduate of the Master of Social Work Indigenous Field of Study Program at Wilfrid Laurier University, is a registered social worker and a member in good standing with the OCSWSSW. Paul is committed to his Anishinaabe spiritual practices and enjoys attending and helping with traditional ceremonies. Paul believes in the power of integrating Indigenous healing practices within the mainstream healthcare system for the benefit of all. Paul is Odawa (Anishinaabe) and mixed European ancestry, a member from Wiikwemikong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island and is a member of the Bear Clan. Paul is a proud father to Tristan, Royal, Harlow, Ailee and Siinese, with his wife Kyla. https://sjcg.net/services/Indigenous-Relations/health.aspx http://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features Dr. Kathy Absolon, an Anishinaabe kwe and Associate Professor at Wilfrid Laurier University. She is a scholar and leader in Indigenous methodologies, cultural reclamation, and land-based healing. Growing up in the bush, Kathy developed a deep connection to the land and the Creator—experiences that shaped her identity and informed her life's work. Throughout her journey, she has navigated the challenges posed by the education system and the legacy of residential schools within her family, drawing strength from her spiritual relationship with the earth and her commitment to community. Kathy's profound cultural awakening and healing were catalyzed by Indigenous teachings and gatherings, which inspired her to advocate for the indigenization of education. She emphasizes the importance of holistic practices that honor Indigenous knowledge and ways of being. Through her storytelling and scholarship, Kathy inspires others to bring their whole selves into educational and healing spaces, highlighting the collective responsibility to heal from colonial violence and restore cultural identity. https://amshealthcare.ca/

This episode features part 1 of 2 with Edna Manitowabi, an esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, Educator, and Storyteller from the Wikwemikong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island. A respected leader in Indigenous education, she has dedicated her life to preserving and sharing the teachings of the Anishinaabe people. As a Professor Emerita at Trent University, Edna played a pivotal role in the Indigenous Studies program, inspiring countless students with her wisdom and commitment to cultural revitalization. Her work emphasizes the importance of traditional healing practices, ceremonies, and storytelling as tools for personal and collective transformation. Edna's profound contributions have been recognized through numerous accolades, but her humility and focus remain on passing forward the ancestral knowledge to future generations. Her voice continues to be a guiding light for those seeking to reconnect with Indigenous teachings and reclaim their identities. In this podcast, we are honoured to hear Edna share her invaluable stories and teachings, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary understanding. Part 2 will be released on Thurs. December 12th, 2024. amshealthcare.ca

This episode features Randy Trudeau. Randy Trudeau is a hunter, trapper, fisher, artist, and traditional medicine harvester from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, located in Northeastern Ontario. Deeply connected to the land and its teachings, Randy's life revolves around Indigenous practices and traditional ways of living. As a skilled hunter and trapper, he has extensive knowledge of the land's resources and cycles, which he combines with expertise in fishing and traditional medicine harvesting. Randy's art draws inspiration from the natural world and his deep-rooted cultural heritage. His work reflects the beauty and wisdom of his community's traditions. Through his various crafts, Randy continues to share and preserve the stories and teachings of his ancestors, ensuring that these vital practices remain strong in the present and for future generations. amshealthcare.ca/

Welcome to part one of this two-part special, co-hosted with Dr. Karen Hill of the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster University and host of Two Row Medicine podcast. Two Row Medicine is a new podcast navigating relationships from a traditional Indigenous perspective in the 21st century. On June 8th and 9th, 2024, Indigenous healers, elders, health administrators, and physicians gathered at the Six Nations of the Grand River in Southern Ontario to discuss strategies for addressing the growing demand for Indigenous healers. It was the third gathering, with the previous two taking place on Manitoulin Island and in Rama in 2022. This gathering brought together healers and Indigenous physicians in meaningful dialogue to explore ways of collaborating on health issues, such as addiction. We invited participants to share their perspectives on collaboration. This episode features: Heather McIntyre – Regional Indigenous Cultural Safety Coordinator, Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin Team, BANAC Mike Bisson – Cultural Coordinator, Nogdawindamin Treatment Centre, and Koognaasewin Child Well-being Law Brandon Waindubence – Sheshegwaning First Nation Troy Monague – Traditional Healing Coordinator, Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin Team, BANAC Esstin McLeod – Healer and medicine practitioner in Northern Ontario Dr. Ojistoh Kahnawahere Horn – Family Physician in the Kahnawake and Akwesasne communities Dr. Karen Hill – Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, and host of the Two Row Medicine podcast We would like to acknowledge the financial contributions to this podcast made by the Department of Family Medicine at McMaster University and AMS Healthcare. Listen to the Two Row Medicine podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts amshealthcare.ca

This episode features Ernie and Charlotte Kwandibens. They are esteemed Indigenous elders and community leaders, renowned for their unwavering dedication to cultural preservation, education, and environmental stewardship. Born and raised within their traditional lands, Ernie a member of Whitesand First Nation, and Charlotte a member of the Waswanabe First Nation, have committed their lives to advocating for the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples. With a wealth of knowledge passed down through generations, Ernie and Charlotte serve as vital bridges between the past and the present. Together, they share stories of resilience, survival, and the profound wisdom of their ancestors, offering guidance and hope to younger generations. Their work in healing the traumas of residential schools has been particularly impactful, as they lead initiatives to foster understanding and reconciliation. Both Ernie and Charlotte are passionate advocates for environmental conservation, emphasizing the sacred relationship between Indigenous peoples and the earth. They collaborate with various organizations to promote sustainable practices and protect natural resources for future generations. Through their storytelling, mentorship, and activism, Ernie and Charlotte Kwandibens continue to inspire and empower their community, ensuring that the voices of Indigenous peoples are heard and respected. http://amshealthcare.ca/